Dogs are curious and intelligent creatures, and their behavior can sometimes be puzzling, especially when left alone. While we often wonder what our furry friends do in our absence, advances in pet monitoring technology have revealed some surprising and strange activities. These behaviors can range from amusing to worrying, providing insight into their needs, emotions, and tendencies. This article explains eight strange things your dog might do when you’re not home. Understanding these behaviors can help you create a safer, more comfortable environment for your dog and strengthen your bond when you’re together.
1. Looking out the window
A common behavior that appears in dogs when left alone is spending a lot of time looking out the window. This activity may seem harmless, but it can indicate that your dog is feeling anxious or bored. Dogs are naturally curious and love to observe the outside world. However, constant vigilance can also be a sign of separation anxiety. They may be looking for signs of you returning or trying to entertain themselves by watching the activity outside. Providing engaging toys such as puzzle feeders and creating a comfortable space away from windows can help reduce this behavior.
2. Rearrange or destroy items
Many dogs engage in destructive behavior when left alone, such as chewing furniture, tearing up cushions or moving items around the house. This can be a sign of boredom, anxiety or a lack of exercise. Dogs have a natural instinct to chew and explore, and when they aren’t given enough mental and physical stimulation, they may turn to your belongings for entertainment. To prevent this, make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before you leave and provide durable chew toys and interactive activities to keep them busy.
3. Excessive screaming or barking
Some dogs express their discomfort through vocalizations, such as howling or barking excessively when left alone. This behavior can be especially problematic if you live close to neighbors. Excessive vocalization is often a sign of separation anxiety or boredom. Dogs howl and bark to communicate and may be trying to call you back or express discomfort. Training your dog to feel more comfortable alone, using calming aids, or consulting a veterinarian or behaviorist may help solve this problem.
4. Take a stroll or a walk
Pace-walking is another behavior that dogs may display when they feel anxious or stressed. This repetitive movement can be a way for dogs to deal with their emotions and release pent-up energy. If your dog pace-walks or pecks excessively when you are not home, it may be a sign of separation anxiety or compulsive behavior. Ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercise, providing mental stimulation, and creating a calm environment can help reduce this behavior. In severe cases, it may be necessary to consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
5. Hiding or seeking comfort in small spaces
Some dogs react to their owner’s absence by hiding or seeking comfort in small, enclosed spaces. This behavior can be a way for dogs to feel safe and secure when they are alone. Dogs may hide under furniture, in closets, or in other quiet places in the home. Creating a designated safe space for your dog, such as a crate with a comfortable bed, can help them feel more secure. Ensuring that this space is associated with positive experiences can make it a comfortable retreat for your dog.
6. Trash raiding
Dogs are natural scavengers; when left alone, they may be tempted to rummage through trash cans for food or interesting items. This behavior can be messy and potentially dangerous if your dog ingests something harmful. To prevent this, make sure your trash cans are securely closed or out of your dog’s reach. Providing appropriate chew toys and keeping food items out of the dog’s reach can also help reduce the temptation to scavenge.
7. Adopt self-soothing behavior
Some dogs engage in self-soothing behaviors when left alone, such as licking their paws or chewing their fur. While occasional grooming is normal, excessive licking or chewing may be a sign of anxiety, boredom or a medical problem such as allergies or skin irritation. If you find your dog frequently engaging in these behaviors, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns. Providing mental stimulation and making sure your dog gets enough exercise can also help reduce anxiety-related self-soothing behaviors.
8. Behaving differently when you return
One of the strangest behaviors is that dogs sometimes behave differently when their owner returns home. Some dogs may greet you with extreme enthusiasm, jumping, barking, or even urinating due to excitement or anxiety. Others may appear disinterested or even hide when you return. These behaviors may be signs of separation anxiety, excessive attachment, or a reaction to your leaving and returning rituals. Establishing a calm and consistent routine for when you leave and return can help your dog feel more secure and reduce these extreme reactions.
Understanding your dog’s strange behavior when you’re not home can provide valuable information about their emotional and physical health. Looking out the window, destroying objects, making excessive noises, pacing around, hiding, getting into the trash, pacing themselves, and behaving differently when you return are all signs that your dog is trying to cope with your absence. Addressing these behaviors through exercise, mental stimulation, training, and creating a safe environment can help your dog feel more comfortable and feel less anxious. Recognizing and responding to these signs ensures a healthy relationship with your furry friend, making your time away even more enjoyable.